Beigong National Forest Park: Beijing’s Closest Imperial-Style Forest Escape

Just 20 km from downtown, Beigong National Forest Park is Beijing’s largest nearby national-level forest park. With 68.8% forest coverage, rolling hills, and a rich mix of history and nature, it’s the perfect getaway when you want fresh air without a long journey.

1. Why Choose Beigong National Forest Park?

When the city feels overwhelming but you don’t want to spend hours on the road, this park is a lifesaver. Officially recognized as a National Forest Park in 2005, Beigong is younger than Beijing’s famous historical gardens, but it cleverly blends natural scenery with cultural heritage.

• Name and history: “Beigong” means “northern palace,” inspired by its role as a royal retreat. During the Qing dynasty, Prince Rongke built his garden here, and relics from both the Ming and Qing eras remain. Highlights include the Huguo Pagoda (built in 1560, one of Beijing’s finest Ming stone pagodas) and a centuries-old stone bridge—authentic relics, not modern replicas.
• Scale and scenery: Covering 9.1 square kilometers, the park has eastern, western, and central zones. Inside, you’ll find 12 cultural sites (pavilions, towers, pagodas) and 15 natural spots, from the charming Xiao Jiangnan (Little Jiangnan) area to Maple Avenue and Birch Valley. The highest peak, Langpo Summit, rises 349.8 meters, with cliffs shaped by ancient earthquakes.
• Four-season beauty: With 253 plant species and 68.8% forest coverage, the park is alive year-round. Autumn is the star, with 3,000 mu (≈200 hectares) of colorful leaves, making it Beijing’s third largest red-leaf viewing area. Spring brings seas of peach and apricot blossoms, summer offers cool shaded woods, and winter transforms the hills into a snowy wonderland.

2. How to Plan Your Trip

Easy Half-Day Tour (for families or tight schedules)

• Morning: A 40-minute drive from the city gets you to the south gate. Stroll through Xiao Jiangnan, enjoy the lakeside scenery, then visit the Huguo Pagoda and stone bridge for a history fix.
• Lunch: Rest in the park or dine in a nearby farmhouse restaurant.
• Afternoon: Take the park shuttle or a light hike up to Lancang Terrace for sweeping views, then head back.

Full-Day Experience (recommended)

• Morning: Arrive early to beat the crowds. Explore the central area, especially Langpo Summit (349.8 m) and Lancang Terrace. The summit gives you stunning panoramic views.
• Lunch: Picnic in the park or try local specialties like Farmhouse Iron Pot Fish at Fengshengyuan restaurant.
• Afternoon: Wander through Xinglong Valley and Fangze Stream, and if you’re up for it, check out the ancient caves like Taigu Huayang Cave.

Photography Route (for shutterbugs)

• Best spots: Langpo Summit (sunrise & panoramas), Maple Avenue (autumn leaves), Xiao Jiangnan (water reflections), and Apricot Blossom Slope (spring blooms).
• Best times: The golden hours—just after sunrise and before sunset—give magical light.

3. Useful Information

• Opening Hours
  • Peak season (Apr 1 – Nov 30): 6:30–20:00 (last entry 19:00)
  • Off-season (Dec 1 – Mar 31): 7:00–17:00 (last entry 16:00)
• Tickets
  • Peak: ¥10
  • Off-season: ¥5
  • Free: kids under 6 (or under 1.2m), seniors (60+), people with disabilities
  • Discounts: students and minors (with valid ID)
• How to Buy
  • Cash not accepted—purchase online via official platforms or travel apps
• Transportation
  • By car: Take Jing-Shi Expressway, exit at Dujiakan, then drive 8 km west. Parking available.
  • By bus/metro: Bus 574 or 843 to Beigong Forest Park Station; or Metro Line 14 to Zhangguozhuang, then transfer.
• Food Options
  • Local restaurants near the park serve farmhouse dishes like Iron Pot Fish
  • Farm stays (e.g., Shenjia Courtyard) offer meals + accommodation
  • Bring water & snacks if you plan a long hike

4. Travel Tips

• Best Seasons
  • Autumn (Oct–Nov): fiery red leaves everywhere
  • Spring (late Mar–Apr): peach and apricot blossoms in bloom
  • Summer: cool forest shade (watch out for mosquitoes)
  • Winter: snowy mountain views (some facilities closed)
• What to Bring
  • Comfortable hiking shoes (some trails are steep)
  • Water and snacks (few vendors inside)
  • Camera—trust me, you’ll need it!
  • Sunscreen, rain gear—mountain weather changes fast
• Who It Suits
  • Families, hikers, photographers, and history buffs
  • Seniors and kids: take easier trails
  • Note: no cable cars—walking is the main way to explore
• Crowd Tips
  • Weekends & holidays get busy, especially during leaf season
  • Go on a weekday morning for peace and quiet
  • Spring flowers & autumn leaves are peak times—expect crowds
• Guides & Maps
  • Smart audio guides available for purchase
  • Some signs may have awkward English—download a digital map in advance

5. Why International Visitors Will Love It

Beigong National Forest Park is a true hidden gem of Beijing, offering authentic history and stunning natural scenery—without the tourist crush.

• Nature + history combo: Ming and Qing relics, 253 plant species, and diverse wildlife
• Four-season charm: fiery red autumns, flowery springs, cool summers, snowy winters
• Outdoor paradise: hiking, birdwatching, and world-class photography spots
• Easy + affordable: just 20 km from downtown, low ticket prices, fewer crowds
• Cultural extras: nearby farmhouses with rustic meals and village life experiences

Unlike the Great Wall or Forbidden City, Beigong is less famous internationally—but that’s exactly its charm. Here, you can enjoy Beijing’s nature and history without the crowds.

Plan your Beigong adventure today! Whether it’s the golden leaves of autumn, the blossoms of spring, or the cool summer shade, this park will surprise you with its beauty and tranquility.